ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on National Food Security & Research convened to address critical issues impacting Pakistan’s agricultural sector, including the need for enhancing wheat and rice yields, reclassifying tobacco as a crop to support farmers, and addressing concerns over the unlicensed use of VRI vaccines in livestock.

According to Senate of Pakistan, the meeting, chaired by Senator Syed Masroor Ahsan, was briefed by the Ministry on declining wheat and rice yields. The Minister for National Food Security & Research attributed the decline to the use of uncertified seeds, inadequate fertilizers, and climate change. He emphasized ongoing governmental reforms aimed at improving the agriculture sector, including enhanced financing options for farmers and the provision of quality seeds.

The Secretary of the Ministry reported fluctuations in wheat production between 2024 and 2026, highlighting the reliance on DAP fertilizer, half of which is imported from Saudi Arabia. He noted that unlike other countries, Pakistan struggles to provide fertilizer subsidies due to agriculture being a devolved subject with most responsibilities assigned to provinces.

The Pakistan Tobacco Board’s Managing Director updated the Committee on tobacco cultivation regulations. A proposal was made to classify tobacco as a crop rather than a commodity, addressing concerns about unsold tobacco stock in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. A Sub-Committee was formed to explore policy recommendations aimed at safeguarding tobacco growers’ interests.

The Committee also reviewed the VRI vaccine’s regulatory status for cattle, with Senator Aimal Wali Khan expressing concerns over its unlicensed use and effectiveness. The vaccine, lacking the required DRAP license since 2020, has been widely distributed, prompting calls for regulatory oversight.

Additionally, the Committee discussed Pakistan’s progress in olive cultivation, noting its membership in the International Olive Council and recognition through international awards. Efforts to expand olive production, particularly in Balochistan, were acknowledged, alongside initiatives in drip irrigation and export enhancement.

Concerns were also raised about palm oil imports, with the Chairman urging for measures to ensure fair practices in the local vegetable oil and ghee market.